Chariots of Fire (1981) - Critical Reviews

Synopsis

It's the post-World War I era. Britons Harold Abrahams and Eric Liddell are both naturally gifted fast sprinters, but approach running and how it fits into their respective lives differently. The son of a Lithuanian Jew, Harold, who lives a somewhat privileged life as a student at Cambridge, uses being the fastest to overcome what he sees as the obstacles he faces in life as a Jew despite that privilege. In his words to paraphrase an old adage, he is often invited to the trough, but isn't allowed to drink. His running prowess does earn him the respect of his classmates, especially his running teammates, and to some extent the school administration, if only he maintains what they consider proper gentlemanly decorum, which isn't always the case in their minds. Born in China, the son of Christian missionaries, Eric, a Scot, is a devout member of the Church of Scotland who eventually wants to return to that missionary work. He sees running as a win-win in that the notoriety of being fast gives him an added outlet to spread the word of God, while he sees his speed as being a gift from God, and he wants to run to honor God and that gift. This view does not sit well with his sister, Jennie Liddell, who sees his running as only taking away time from his work to God. Harold and Eric's lives do intersect in national races, but it is the one hundred meter track event at the 1924 Paris Olympics which the two men and their supporters most anticipate. Beyond the fact that Americans Charles Paddock and Jackson Scholz are favored in the event, the much anticipated head to head between Harold and Eric may be further shadowed by other issues, especially as it affects Eric's Christian beliefs.

Critical Acclaim

When Chariots of Fire premiered in 1981, it received widespread acclaim for its portrayal of the true story of two British athletes competing in the 1924 Paris Olympics. Critics lauded the film for its nuanced exploration of themes such as faith, identity, and perseverance. The film's director, Hugh Hudson, was praised for his ability to weave a compelling narrative that was both inspiring and thought-provoking. The haunting and iconic score by Vangelis, particularly the main theme, became instantly recognizable and contributed significantly to the film's emotional impact.

In contemporary reviews, Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times highlighted the film's "unusual richness of texture," and described it as "a film of great beauty and emotional impact." Modern audiences continue to embrace Chariots of Fire, as evidenced by its 84% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film is often noted for its authentic portrayal of early 20th-century Britain and the complexities faced by its protagonists, Harold Abrahams and Eric Liddell, in navigating societal and personal challenges.

The lasting impact of Chariots of Fire is evident in its enduring legacy, as it won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Its influence extends beyond the cinematic world, symbolizing the Olympic spirit and the triumph of determination and belief. The film's iconic opening sequence on the beach, accompanied by Vangelis's score, remains a defining moment in cinema history. Chariots of Fire has secured its place as a classic, frequently appearing on lists of the greatest sports films and continuing to inspire new generations with its timeless message.